The Greater Philadelphia Business Network Draws Crowds For Inaugural Meeting

The Greater Philadelphia Business Network Draws Crowds For Inaugural Meeting

Photo: Penn Mutual, 1847 Financial

Doug Coil

The inaugural meeting of The Greater Philadelphia Rugby Business Network took place at the Union League in center city Philadelphia last night. The rain did little to dampen the spirits of what I estimate as 250 or more rugby business leaders who attended the event.

James J. Meehan, Managing Partner of 1847 Financial, the local subsidiary of Penn Mutual, welcomed the group and explained how the Rugby Business Network is a non profit organization that connects business leaders sharing a passion for rugby to foster its growth in the community. At similar events worldwide, members ask one another, “How can I help you ?”

John J. McNichol, President of Rugby Pennsylvania and also President of the Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority, talked about Rugby Pennsylvania and the large number of people served in youth and high school rugby. He encouraged others to step up and foster this growth, as well.

The role that was played with staging an area event that featured the USA Rugby Eagles against the Maori All Blacks and most recently with the Harlequins was discussed. The Harlequins, in particular, integrated themselves in the rugby community offering youth and coaching clinics.

Penn Mutual’s presence at this meeting showed how important they feel about rugby. The CEO of Penn Mutual, Eileen C. McDonnell, as well as top Senior company leaders, Thomas Harris, Raymond C. Caucci, James J. Meehan and other supporting members were there.

Penn Mutual is a proud sponsor of the Penn Mutual Collegiate Rugby Championship and the Penn Mutual Varsity Cup. It hopes to grow rugby in the Greater Philadelphia area, as well as nationwide. It is hoping to assist in the growth of youth and high school rugby, in men’s and women’s collegiate rugby, as well as the national level. It also looks for those who are playing the sport to join the organization.

Look for expanded promotion of men’s and women’s collegiate rugby at the Penn Mutual Collegiate Rugby Championship in 2016. The event also serves as the National Small College Rugby Organization (NSCRO) Rugby Sevens Championship. A dynamic high school boys and girls tournament is part of the event. The 2016 USA Sevens Collegiate Rugby Championship should be an even better one as it continues to evolve. Expect some future announcements that will positively impact this outstanding event.

The initial meeting of The Greater Philadelphia Rugby Business Network provided an opportunity to network with both old friends and meet new ones. Learning about how others are helping grow rugby were communicated by many.

The next meeting of The Greater Philadelphia Rugby Business Network will be held Thursday, January 28th at the 1847 Financial Office in Conshohocken, PA. They will also be hosting a USA Sevens watch party on March 4th.

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